Moved to Oklahoma and finally got my 229 back after 3 yrs in ungun-friendly Massachusetts. But my buddy who held it for me pushed the sights. Is there something I can use to adjust them without buying the big buckes sight pusher.

Hammer and a brass punch or a sturdy wood block. Be sure to support the slide when you whack it, and it should be off of the frame when being adjusted. Be aware that some other pushers may work for adjustments on your Sig...Glock maybe, etc...if you can borrow one.

I have an armorer's course video on the SiG classic series (NOT an official SiG production) and the gunsmith says you don't need the sight pusher. He showed how to carefully use a brass punch and small hammer. You need to hit the sight base, not the blade or you'll snap it off.

plastic punch and hammer worked for me. Make sure you punch it out to the left and install the new set from the left. If you try otherwise...you'll make a cheesecake out of the sights Ask me how I know

And yes, it's gonna take some force. Just pound the sight to hell and back, it is reliable you know.